There’s something truly special about biting into a delicate chocolate shell and discovering a smooth, creamy, or crunchy filling inside. Chocolate bonbons, filled chocolates and truffles–there are many names for these delicious chocolate bites of pure indulgence! From silky ganache and gooey caramel to nutty praline and fruity centers, making your own homemade filled chocolates let you control flavor, quality, and aesthetics. Here you’ll find step-by-step guides and recipes to create stunning, delicious chocolates—perfect for gifting, celebrations, or simply treating yourself!
Chocolate bonbons and filled chocolates are beautiful, full of flavor, and surprisingly fun to make at home! Whether you prefer caramel-filled chocolates, creamy ganache, or nutty praline centers, the possibilities are endless. With the right techniques, you can create handmade chocolates that rival those from any chocolatier.
There are endless options when it comes to fillings! Classic choices include silky ganache, rich caramel, nutty gianduja, marzipan, or fluffy marshmallow. For a fruity twist, try passion fruit, raspberry, or citrus-infused fillings. If you want chocolates that last longer, opt for fillings with balanced moisture content—like ganache, praline, or caramel—rather than fresh cream or fruit purées, which have a shorter shelf life.
One of the most important steps in making chocolate bonbons is tempering the chocolate. Properly tempered chocolate ensures a shiny finish, a crisp snap, and an easy release from the chocolate mold. If chocolate isn’t tempered correctly, it will turn dull, rubbery or soft. While tempering may sound tricky, it just takes a little patience and the right technique! Check out my beginner’s guide to tempering chocolate to get started.
Filled chocolates aren’t just for the holidays—they’re delicious all year round! You can adjust the flavors to suit the season: light and citrusy for summer, rich and spiced for winter. Whether you’re making elegant truffles for a dinner party, festive chocolates for New Year’s Eve, or fun treats with the kids, there’s a recipe for you in my collection.
So grab your chocolate molds, temper some chocolate, and start experimenting with flavors. With the right techniques, making your own chocolate bonbons and filled chocolates is easier than you think and definitely fun.
